I wish you all a very happy and prosperous 2017. As you are all aware, 2016 was the aftermath of a severe global economic meltdown, wherein there were major declines in investments in the stock market and real estate sector. This had an adverse impact on the performance results of many investment companies and our company too was not left unscathed. This is a learning lessons for us and we are looking forward to an exciting era of sustained growth.
We recognize the tourism sector as the shining star in the economic development and have drawn up plans to invest heavily in it. With the support of like-minded entrepreneurs/ investors, we feel that we can outpace the growth in this sector.
We have invested in the quarry industry, which is engaged in the mining and crushing of gabbro rock into aggregates – a basic raw material for the infrastructure industry. We recognize the potential of this industry in light of the 5-year plans of the nation to expand and improve the road infrastructure as also the national plans of linking the GCC nations by a rail network. We have already drawn up plans to expand the operations of our subsidiary and would be soon inviting investment into the project.
The real estate sector has undergone a significant downturn over the last 2 years and has today attained levels that we consider are sustainable. With Oman being one of the fastest-growing economies in the region, there exists a good scope for the real estate sector and we are poised to make a few high value-added proposals for this sector. We have made a few investments in sound businesses that we have nurtured and brought up to a level where they are self-sustaining and profitable. We are looking forward to joining hands with investors to achieve development/ expansion plans that we have drawn up for these businesses.
As a responsible corporate Citizen, we remain committed to sustaining and adding value to the society, the environment and the economy. We are committed to pursuing a policy of appointing qualified Omani personnel and developing the necessary programs to refine the skills of other employees and enhance their professional levels. The percentage of Omanisation in the parent company reached 75% during 2009 and the total number of employees in the Group was approximately 138 with an Omanisation percentage of 43%. Omanis are working in various hierarchical levels within the group. The company is committed to implementing a code of corporate governance issued by the Capital Market Authority. It remains committed to the utmost standards of transparency in the disclosure to shareholders.
I look forward to an exciting 2010 with the entire Al Batinah team working together in dedication and integrity, and I am confident of our success in achieving our strategic objectives and surpassing the expectations of our stakeholders. Peace be upon you and God's mercy and blessings.

Salah Hilal Nasser Al-Mawally